Marti Conner | Women of Impact 2025

MARTI CONNER

President

Kids Matter International

When asked how many kids I have, I say “1,500!” It gives me the opportunity to talk about Kids Matter. Our vision is to break the cycle of poverty by focusing on reading proficiency and by providing new clothes and shoes to kids whose families earn less than $25,000/year.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

It was a “God thing,” the door opened. I went in kicking and screaming. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. For a woman with no kids, I find it ironic.

Biggest challenges in my career

Before Kids Matter, I was in healthcare marketing. Getting physicians to accept the importance of differentiating the value proposition of their practice was challenging. But it was necessary so consumers could make an educated decision when selecting a specialist.

My first job and what it taught me

My first job was in sales where I learned the importance of building relationships. There is nothing more valuable in business than your relationship capital.

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Kids Matter! There are thousands of kids who live in poverty in our communities. A $100 donation provides over $300 in new clothes and shoes to a child in need.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

Witnessing a child’s excitement when selecting a new book about becoming a fireman, physician, or teacher. Helping a child see a path to a better future gives me joy.

Best career moment so far

Receiving hand-drawn pictures from kids thanking us for their new clothes and books makes my heart happy.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Managing my personal feelings towards people who are apathetic to helping a child in need.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Hanging with close friends while enjoying a great bottle of wine.

Best advice I ever received

Never let the words of one person define your value or undermine your self-confidence.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

When donating to a charity, look at their 990s. Audited financial statements confirm that 83% of every dollar we spend goes to support our programs.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

First, I pray for clarity and then consult my mentors to get their perspective.

IN THE DETAILS